Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » How do you get breast milk out of clothes?

How do you get breast milk out of clothes?

Understanding Breast Milk Stains
Breast milk stains can be a common occurrence for nursing mothers, often leading to frustration when it comes to cleaning clothes. While breast milk is a natural substance, it contains proteins and fats that can leave stubborn stains if not treated promptly. Fortunately, there are effective methods to remove these stains, whether they are fresh or have dried.
Immediate Action: Blotting the Stain
When you notice a fresh breast milk stain, the first step is to gently blot the excess milk using a clean cloth or burp cloth. This action helps to absorb as much of the milk as possible before it sets into the fabric. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can push the milk deeper into the fibers, making it harder to remove.
Pre-Treatment Techniques
Once you’ve blotted the stain, it’s time to treat it. Since breast milk is primarily a protein stain, using an enzymatic stain remover is highly recommended. These products are designed to break down protein-based stains effectively. Apply the stain remover directly to the affected area and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes to allow the enzymes to work on the stain.
For those who prefer a more natural approach, a mixture of cold water and a small amount of dish soap can also be effective. Gently rub the mixture into the stain, allowing it to soak for a few minutes.
Washing the Garment
After pre-treating the stain, wash the garment in cold water. It’s crucial to avoid hot water, as heat can set the stain, making it nearly impossible to remove. If the garment is machine washable, use a gentle cycle to protect the fabric. For delicate items, hand washing may be a better option.
Dealing with Dried Stains
If the breast milk stain has dried, don’t worry—there are still ways to tackle it. Start by soaking the stained area in cold water for about 30 minutes. This can help loosen the milk proteins. After soaking, apply the enzymatic stain remover or your chosen cleaning solution, and follow the same washing instructions as before.
Final Tips
– Avoid Heat: Always air dry the garment after washing. If the stain persists, avoid putting it in the dryer, as the heat can set the stain permanently.
– Repeat if Necessary: Sometimes, stubborn stains may require multiple treatments. Don’t hesitate to repeat the pre-treatment and washing process if the stain doesn’t come out on the first try.
By following these steps, nursing mothers can effectively manage breast milk stains, keeping their clothes looking fresh and clean. With a little patience and the right techniques, these common challenges can be easily overcome.

How do you get yellow milk stains out of baby clothes?

Say Goodbye to Breastmilk Stains: Effective Stain Removal Methods

  • 1. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
  • 2. Spray the vinegar solution onto the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes.
  • 3. Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or sponge.
  • 4. Rinse the area with water.
  • 5.

How to remove milk from fabric?

Blot up the excess milk with a white cotton towel. Using your fingers or a soft-scrub brush, rub the stain with a mixture of 2 cups of cold water, 1 tablespoon of dish-washing liquid and 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Rinse with cold water. Repeat as needed.

What neutralizes milk smell?

Act Quickly: Address milk spills immediately to prevent odor development, Avoid rubbing the spill to prevent deeper penetration. Effective Methods: Baking Soda, Coffee Grounds, White Vinegar, Enzyme Spray, Steam Cleaners, Ozone Generator.

Does breast milk wash out of clothes?

Breastmilk stains may be stubborn, but with the right approach and a little patience, you can effectively remove them from your clothes and fabrics. Act quickly, use cold water soaks, pre-treat with stain removers, opt for enzyme-based cleaners, harness the power of sunlight, and repeat the process if needed.

How do you remove breast milk residue?

Add soap and hot water to basin. Scrub items using a clean brush used only for infant feeding items. Rinse by holding items under running water, or by submerging in fresh water in a separate basin. Air-dry thoroughly.

How do you get nursing home smell out of clothes?

Soak In Baking Soda (or Vinegar)
If the odor persists, fill a sink, bucket, or tub with water and baking soda and allow your clothes or bedding to soak for 15 – 30 minutes. White Vinegar can be used as an alternative.

Does oxiclean remove breast milk stains?

The majority of commenters had success using Oxiclean – see the post for more details and a few other strategies. It’s hard to tell from my photos, but after a long soak (overnight) in Oxiclean and sun exposure for an afternoon on the laundry line, most of the stains are gone (yee haw!).

How do I protect my clothes from breast milk?

First, there are breast pads that simply soak up the leakage to prevent it from getting on your clothes. Breast pads are worn inside the bra. There are washable and disposable breast pads. Then, there are ‘milk savers’ or ‘breast shells’ that are also designed to be worn inside the bra, like a breast pad.

How to get rid of breast milk smell from clothes?

You can pretreat spots with dish liquid, work it in by rubbing the cloth against itself, leave for 10-20 minutes and then wash. I use a few squirts of dawn in my wash to take away the milk smell from clothes.

Does milk permanently stain clothes?

The good news is that while milk stains are annoying, they’re generally quite removable, even if they’re dried. Just make sure that you follow the steps above, avoiding hot water during the pre-treating stage to prevent the milk’s proteins from setting into the fibers of your clothes.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment